Initial and monogram accessories are extremely popular and widely available; from jewelry to clothing to bags, you can have your initial(s) placed on anything. But this trend is not new and started over a century ago.
In a world filled with mass-produced accessories, initial and monogram jewelry provides an unique blend of personalization, style, and timeless elegance. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these necklaces serve as powerful symbols of identity, connection, and individuality.
The practice of "memento mori," a Latin phrase meaning "remember you must die," serves as a powerful reminder to reflect on our mortality and live with intention. Incorporating memento mori into your daily life is a personal journey that can be tailored to your preferences and lifestyle. These practices can serve as gentle reminders to embrace the present, live authentically, and appreciate the fleeting beauty of each moment.
The Essence of Memento Mori
Memento mori and the Memento Mori Perspective is not a fixation on death, it is a reminder to embrace the impermanence of life in order to live life fully. Rooted in Stoic philosophy, this practice encourages us to acknowledge the reality of our mortality, and use it for personal growth and leading more meaningful lives. By recognizing the finite nature of our existence, we gain a profound perspective on the value of time and the choices we make. Read our “What is the Memento Mori Perspective?” post to learn about the history of “memento mori” and the Memento Mori Perspective.
Embracing and Discovering Memento Mori
Embracing and discovering memento mori may seem daunting and morbid at first, especially when you consider that it requires you to contemplate your mortality; however, this practice can be a powerful tool for personal development. By facing the inevitability of death, we are prompted to reassess our priorities, discard meaningless concerns, and focus on what truly matters day-to-day. This shift in perspective helps us gain a sense of gratitude for the present moment and a renewed commitment to living authentically, with purpose, and with intent.When we acknowledge that the time we have is limited, every decision made - the friends and company we keep, the way we spend our hours during the day, and the work we do - gains significance and begins to have a much more profound meaning. So this practice allows you to begin aligning your everyday actions with your values and aspirations in life. Embracing the memento mori journey does not mean there will not be challenges; challenges come with life, but the practice of memento mori can give you a resilient mindset and a way to navigate life’s adversity. By practicing memento mori you gain a deeper understanding that setbacks and hardships are a part of human life that can keep you from taking chances or trying new things/experiences because you are scared. By learning to handle your fears with courage and grace, you also learn to view any challenges that arise as having a purpose so no experience is taken for granted.When we are not held back by our fears - of failing, looking silly, being turned down, etc. - we can freely live our lives in the manner that we want. This can also mean inspiring us to contribute positively to our communities and/or leaving a lasting impact and impression, thus, leaving a meaningful and enduring legacy when the time comes.
Your Memento Mori Journey
The memento mori journey is a profound exploration of life's impermanence and the transformative power it holds and provides us! This philosophy allows us to unlock the potential for personal growth, intentional living, resilience, and building a lasting legacy. Embracing the Memento Mori Perspective can lead to clarity in your priorities which allows you to increase mindfulness and awareness in present moments; determine what truly matters in your life; gain and enhance your life's purposes and; be intentional in your daily living. Here are ten ways you can embark on your personal memento mori journey to experience the benefits:
Create mindful moments and turn daily rituals like mealtimes or morning routines into opportunities for contemplation and mindful reflection.
Create daily affirmations to reinforce the awareness of life's impermanence and solidify the importance of every day’s decisions.
Practice gratitude in your daily routine(s) by recognizing each moment as a gift whether it is expressing gratitude for people or taking time to appreciate your experiences and opportunities.
Make conscious decisions and consider their long-term impact and alignment with your values.
Reflect on your daily actions and consider how they contribute to a life well-lived.
Connect with nature as a reminder of the broader context of existence.
Engage in activities that contribute to a lasting legacy and leave a positive impact on the world.
Keep a memento mori journal where you reflect on your experiences, thoughts, and emotions related to the awareness of your mortality and write down moments of gratitude, lessons learned, and aspirations for a purposeful life.
Foster humility by understanding that life is finite and everyone shares a common fate regardless of socioeconomic status, careers, educational background, etc.
Cultivate compassion and empathy for others on their respective journeys.
As you embark on your personal memento mori journey give yourself grace; the Memento Mori Perspective involves a new way of thinking. Understand that embracing the Memento Mori Perspective or incorporating memento mori into your life does not mean you should go through life with rose-colored glasses or emotionless when you experience challenges; living memento mori means living life with purpose, intention, and in a manner that aligns with your values and goals so you have no regrets at the end. When challenges arise or when we get wrapped up in the hustle-and-bustle of our every day, we can sometimes forget why we started our journeys or even lose our way. Finding a way to keep your journey on track is important; here are two good ways to do that:
Incorporate visual reminders and subtle symbols of memento mori in your living or work space(s).
Wear jewelry that incorporates symbols of or is inspired by memento mori.
Visit our store to purchase pieces from our Memento Mori Collection and items with memento mori symbols to keep your journey alive!
Final Thoughts
“Memento mori” or “remember you must die” is sometimes coupled with the phrase “Memento vivere” meaning “remember to live”. As we navigate the complexities of our lives, let’s remember that our time on this earth is limited and it is important that we find the inspiration to live fully and authentically for “memento mori, memento vivere” (remember you must die, [so] remember to live).-MM
Memento mori meaning “Remember you must die” is a Latin phrase used to remind many that life is short and death is inevitable. Although, at first it may sound gruesome, the Memento Mori Perspective is a way to promote living life to the fullest by not taking things for granted or worrying about things that we cannot control. Depictions of memento mori have been found throughout history and in a multitude of formats.